Dauntless 1.0 Launch Announced

After spending some time in beta and then following it up with a cross-platform Early Access phase, Phoenix Labs’ Monster Hunter-inspired action-RPG Dauntless is almost ready for a proper launch. Barring any last minute delays, on September 26, 2019, the game’s 1.0 release version will go live, bringing along a set of new features that include a new Behemoth, weapon and bounty system, as well as a new seasonal Aether Unbound expansion. Here’s the launch trailer:

And the announcement press release:

Phoenix Labs announced that Dauntless will be launching out of early access on September 26, ushering in a new era for the ever-evolving, Behemoth-slaying, co-op action RPG on Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC. September 26 will also mark the beginning of a new chapter in Dauntless with a major new seasonal expansion, “Aether Unbound.” The update will bring an all-new weapon, Behemoth, Hunt Pass, bounty system and more to the game.

Phoenix Labs prides itself on transparency and its attention to player feedback, the latter of which has informed many of the game’s extensive iterations — from combat and progression to the experience, world, and story. With its most recent update (which introduced saved loadouts, a crafting UI overhaul, improvements to transmogs, a new exotic weapon, and more) it has prepared the ground for its official entry into 1.0 on September 26.

After Dauntless exits early access, the living game will continue to grow and expand with new content, seasonal updates, and Hunt Passes, which will provide players with a steady flow of new content to enjoy for years to come. The next season, Aether Unbound, will release alongside Dauntless’ 1.0 launch on September 26, bringing brand new content — including the new weapon, aether strikers — along with it. Slayers will also have the opportunity to unleash the aether strikers on a powerful new Dire Behemoth, Tempestborne Stormclaw, which makes its way to the Shattered Isles as part of the new season. Aether Unbound will also offer a different way to hunt and earn valuable experience with the new bounty system, in addition to offering Slayers a new Hunt Pass packed with in-game rewards. Aether Unbound is just the beginning of an exciting new phase in the Dauntless journey. The team is already hard at work on new features, the following season, and more — all coming later this year. For more information on the latest developments, please see the Dauntless roadmap.

Finally, here’s a letter from Jesse Houston, Phoenix Labs’ CEO:

In 2014 we started Phoenix Labs with a vision. We were 7 developers who believed in redefining the way players shared their gaming experiences. Now in 2019 we’re over 100 strong, and you – the Dauntless community – have been with us every step of the way.

Sept 26th marks a special celebration for Slayers everywhere. Dauntless will leave early access and launch 1.0 with its latest patch, Aether Unbound. As we look back on the last 5 years, we reflect on just how amazing the journey with you has been. On behalf of everyone at Phoenix Labs, thank you for joining us on this adventure.

Not long ago we discussed what our 1.0 release would mean to us. Ever since the launch of our technical alpha in 2017, we’ve partnered with you and listened to your feedback. We’ve worked together to make the Shattered Isles a home for millions of Slayers. Every one of you has been instrumental in shaping the game into what you see today.

Since launching on console earlier this year, we’ve continuously iterated and improved Dauntless for players worldwide. In Fortune and Glory, we introduced a brand new game mode – Trials – complete with rewards for even the most skilled of Slayers. With Aether Unbound, we’re expanding the world even more with the addition of the Aether Strikers, Tempestborne Stormclaw, the Bounty system, and more.

Aether Unbound celebrates the culmination of the last 5 years of Dauntless development, but it is also the next step in our journey together. We have even more exciting content coming soon this year and beyond. More Behemoths, more weapons, more challenges, and more ways to slay.

It’s no coincidence we’re calling this update “unbound.” It’s because our future together is limitless.

See you in the Shattered Isles, Slayers.

Jesse “GTez” Houston signatureJesse “GTez” Houston
CEO and Co-Founder – Phoenix Labs